Air Conditioning Repair Vs. Replacement

Darcy Holmes

When the temperature gets higher, we turn to our home’s air conditioning to get us through those summer months. However, issues can come with your window units or your HVAC system that leave you sweating it out. It’s tough for some owners to recognize the difference between the need to make repairs or the need to invest in a new air conditioner altogether. Here are some problems that homeowners should keep an eye out for to know that they are making the adjustments that are best for their situation.

Easy AC Repair

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If you need to make fixes to your home’s air conditioning, you’ll want to be sure you’re working with an HVAC company serving the air conditioning repair and AC replacement needs for any community. If you notice that your AC isn’t giving you the cool air you need, call in a technician to check out your HVAC system. There could be cracks within your ductwork that are preventing proper airflow. A repair technician can make the necessary repair to the lines, avoiding having to entirely replace an air conditioning unit.

It’s suggested that homeowners bring in an HVAC technician for annual maintenance to make sure that these systems are up to code for both the summer and winter months when the heating elements of this HVAC unit may be necessary. This can help you spot multiple clogs in the ducts brought on by dust, waste, and other pathogens that might be blocking vents. Vent blockages are bad for your indoor air quality, putting these dangerous inhalants in the air.

Timeline for AC Replacement

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If you start hearing metallic clanking or other noise, you may be worried that your air conditioner is on its last legs. Properly maintained HVAC systems can last 15 to 20 years before you have to replace the unit. If you notice that your cooling needs are not being met, you’ll want to bring in a technician to take a look at the equipment to see if the system is salvageable. HVAC specialists will alert you to the cost of repairs in comparison to HVAC replacement, which can run on average between $5,000 to $10,000 depending on the size of the unit you’ll need to suit your household needs.

Professional installers will ask you to monitor your home’s energy bills to spot issues. If you notice that your home isn’t being kept cold but your energy bill is higher than ever in the cooling season, alert a tech about a potential problem. This could be as simple as having them add coolant to a ductless HVAC system but could also be an overall problem with the machinery. This may lead a homeowner to explore new units that specialize in energy efficiency at any time of year.

Proper AC Maintenance

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While you may find yourself in a position to decide between paying for HVAC repairs or replacing the system altogether, the best way to make sure you can get the most of your investment is proper air conditioning maintenance. It’s important to regularly clean or replace air filters to eliminate the chance of allergens and dust getting into the air inside your household. Be sure to stay on top of regular maintenance plans, assessing any noises that occur after starting up that HVAC system for the first time in the summer months.

If you are using a ductless mini-split, you’ll want to look out for any cracks in the condenser or leaks of coolant that are preventing colder air from coming in. You’ll also want to make sure that the outdoor part of this unit is cleared out of any crud or dirt that is blocking proper ventilation for the system. Be sure to assess an invoice with a licensed technician to make sure you’re making the right move for your household.